On August 7th Black Creek Outfitters hosted a Guru Session led by Jack Stucki. The subject matter was “Pitching a Tent”. A strong proponent of minimalist hiking, Jack focused less on tent manufacturers and more on proper selection and use based on the type of hiker one is. He did offer some great advice on how to handle foul weather and dark conditions. As usual he also shared some entertaining stories which enhance the education element.

Minimalist hiking is not cheap, but if you plan and save you will find the money you spend is priceless when it comes to the weight you’ll save. Before making any purchase do your research. Go to your local outfitter and let them take you through the variety of gear at your disposal.

The Guru discussions occur every Wednesday evening, with pauses in the series based on availability as well as breaks for planning and actual outdoor adventuring. If you are in the Jacksonville area and would like a session dedicated to a specific topic you can reach out to me or ask for Jack when you visit the store.

• Our tent for this evening is the MSR Experience Series Hubba. Best names ever. Check out their site:
• Know your trek. Car camping vs. section/through hiking. Jack’s focus is minimalist hiking, hence a minimalist style tent. Costs more, but if you’re packing it you’re getting value through less weight.
• Todays tents are silicone impregnated nylon, significantly lighter than the days of military grade pop up tents.
• Tents have gone from sleeves to ringlets to clips
• Increased ground claws will allow for more space. Design idea.
• When rain comes, find a place to wait out the weather. Taking a tent down in the rain is less a problem.
• Suggestion: pack tent assembled so when the rain comes you have a quick setup. This is specific to fly only. Full tent enclosure is a different story.
• Inventory your tent and perform multiple pitch and take down excercises. Be efficient before trail.
• Prepare for the unexpected to a greater degree…do it in the dark. Don’t expect a light source.
• Jack and his daughter set used the week before trail to practice setting up the tent twice a day.
• “Fast fly” is the term used for pre setup.
• Big Agnes and Marmot have this capability.
• A bug bivy sack is an alternative to a tent if the weather is warm and you know you’ll have coverage if needed.
• Jack warned of hiking the AT that Lyme Disease is a danger between the months of mid-June through mid-September, going from VA to VT. Make sure you have a tent with coverage for weather and insects.
• Jack noted that buying a minimalist pack before buying the gear might not be the best idea. Minimalist packs are meant to carry minimalist gear. Whatever tent you buy consider how you’re going to carry it.
• Set the tent up in the store before purchasing it. Completely understand the pieces and space. Where will you put your wet gear and your pack? It comes down to personal preference.
• If you ask Jack, the best tent begins and ends with Big Agnes.